In a bold move that has sparked intense debate, Charlotte Mortlock, the founder of Hilma's Network—a group dedicated to boosting women's involvement in the Liberal Party—has resigned from the party following the abrupt ousting of Sussan Ley, Australia's first female Coalition leader, just nine months into her tenure. But here's where it gets controversial: Mortlock's departure comes amid growing concerns about the party's commitment to gender equality, leaving many to wonder if this is a symptom of a deeper issue. And this is the part most people miss: her resignation isn't just a personal decision—it's a statement about the challenges women face in Australian politics today.
Mortlock, a former Liberal staffer and journalist, launched Hilma's Network in 2022, naming it after Hilma Molyneux Parkes, a pioneering suffragist who founded the Women's Liberal League of NSW in 1902. This league was instrumental in securing women's right to vote in pre-selections. In an emotional Instagram post, Mortlock reflected on her journey, stating, 'I founded Hilma's four years ago and am incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved, particularly the countless women we’ve supported across the country during preselections and elections.' She added, 'From the start, we expanded rapidly, hosting events in multiple states that challenged the party to evolve.'
However, the Liberal Party’s struggle to retain female voters is no secret. According to the Australian Election Study, the number of women voting for the party has been declining since 2004, with projections showing that women are less likely to vote for the Coalition in the 2025 election than ever before. Is this a failure of leadership, or a reflection of broader societal trends?
Deputy Liberal leader Jane Hume praised Mortlock’s contributions, calling her 'an amazing advocate for women in the Liberal Party.' Yet, she admitted, 'It’s disappointing to see someone who’s done so much decide to leave. My concern is that the momentum Charlotte built might wane.' Hume vowed to ensure that doesn’t happen, but the question remains: Can the party truly sustain its efforts without Mortlock’s leadership?
Erin Watson, the new chief executive of Hilma's Network, acknowledged the bittersweet nature of Mortlock’s departure. 'She leaves behind a strong, sustainable organization, which is a testament to her hard work,' Watson said. However, she echoed Mortlock’s disappointment over Ley’s removal, asking, 'Was Sussan Ley handed a poisoned chalice? The party was in a tough spot after the election, but this outcome is disheartening.'
Despite federal setbacks, Watson highlighted progress at the state level, where four women currently lead the Liberal Party: Lia Finocchiaro in the Northern Territory, Jess Wilson in Victoria, Kellie Sloane in New South Wales, and Ashton Hurn in South Australia. 'Federally, things are tough, but there’s a lot of potential in the states,' she noted.
Mortlock’s resignation has drawn support from current and former Liberal politicians, including Shadow Minister for Women Maria Kovacic, who commented, 'You will be missed. Thank you for all you’ve done.' Former South Australian MP Nicolle Flint added, 'Thank you for everything you’ve done for women and the Liberal Party.' Former NSW Energy Minister Matt Kean praised her 'inspiring leadership and courage,' predicting that her legacy will be seen in the women she mentored rising through the ranks.
But here’s the million-dollar question: Are gender quotas the solution? Mortlock has been a vocal advocate for quotas, recently leading an unsuccessful push to implement them in New South Wales. While some state branches have adopted quotas, their effectiveness varies. Watson suggested studying successful states to replicate their strategies, but Jane Hume remains staunchly opposed. 'I don’t support quotas,' Hume stated, 'but I do support more women in parliament. It’s not a binary issue.'
As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: Mortlock’s departure has opened a Pandora’s box of questions about gender equality in Australian politics. Do you think quotas are necessary, or are there better ways to empower women in politics? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep this conversation going.
